Top Places to Elope in New York City
Top Places to Elope in NYC
New York City elopements certainly have my heart. There is something so special about saying your vows in such an intimate way. With me as your New York City elopement and intimate wedding photographer, you can be sure your photos will truly reflect your personalities as a couple - with every candid, un-posed and in between moment captured.
Whether you decide to get married in Central Park, or on a rooftop overlooking the city skyline - you’re sure to have an unforgettable elopement experience.
1. On a NYC Rooftop
A rooftop elopement in New York City offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, the perfect backdrop for your intimate ceremony. Whether it’s just the two of you, or you choose to share the moment with a few close family and friends, a NYC elopement will be an experience you’ll never forget. Hudson Yards Lofts is a stunning venue located in New York City, with gorgeous rooftop views of downtown Manhattan. It has a stunning indoor space for getting ready or hosting an intimate dinner as well as a rooftop, for perfect for portraits and ceremonies. With its breathtaking views of the city skyline, it's an ideal setting for a romantic and intimate rooftop elopement.
SAGA is a renowned culinary destination located at 70 Pine Street in NYC, and they are an AMAZING choice for an elopement or intimate wedding - offering an elevated dining experience that marries innovative flavors with stunning city views. They have a small dining room that seats 10 people and a charming rooftop terrace for elopements! With a commitment to seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation, the restaurant showcases a contemporary, multi-course tasting menu that reflects the vibrancy of its urban surroundings.
2. Bethesda Terrace - Central Park
New York City’s iconic Central Park has been around since 1858. Its 843 acres of outdoor space have become a top destination for visitors to the city and locals alike. Located in the heart of New York City, holds a rich and captivating history. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, Central Park was established as a response to the growing need for open green spaces in what was rapidly becoming an urban jungle. Construction of the park began in 1858 and lasted for several years. The park officially opened to the public in 1873, offering a much-needed respite from the bustling city streets. Throughout its history, Central Park has been a witness to numerous significant events, including political rallies, protests, and iconic concerts. Today, it stands as a beloved oasis, graced with meticulously landscaped gardens, picturesque lakes, iconic bridges, and countless recreational activities that continue to attract locals and tourists alike. Central Park is a true testament to the enduring legacy of nature amidst the heart of a metropolis.
As one of the most popular spots to elope in New York City, Central Park has a lot to offer for your elopement. From gardens and flower beds, to the pond and Bethesda Terrace, the park offers a unique variety for your elopement portraits.
Bethesda Terrace in Central Park offers a breathtaking view that seamlessly blends nature with architectural elegance. Overlooking the iconic Bethesda Fountain, the terrace is adorned with intricate tile work and surrounded by lush greenery, creating a tranquil atmosphere in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy the sight of rowboats gliding across the waters of the lake, couples strolling hand in hand, and artists capturing the dynamic energy of the space. The gentle sounds of water cascading from the fountain, combined with the vibrant life of the park, make Bethesda Terrace a picturesque spot for reflection and inspiration.
3. Ladies Pavillion - Central Park
Ladies Pavilion in Central Park offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Nestled by the tranquil waters of the lake, the pavilion boasts picturesque sights of lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and the iconic skyline peeking through the trees. Whether you're perched on a bench or wandering the path, the ambiance here is infused with natural beauty and a sense of peace, making it an ideal spot for intimate gatherings, quiet reflection, or simply enjoying the charm of one of New York City's most beloved parks.
4. Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of the most iconic and beloved locations in New York City. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the station was built in 1913 and serves as a hub for transportation, commerce, and entertainment. It has become a cultural icon over the years, featured in many films, television shows, and books.
Grand Central Terminal is not only a great place to take a train into the city, but also a popular spot for elopements. This stunning location showcases breathtaking architecture that captures the grandeur of early 20th-century design. The main concourse features a soaring ceiling adorned with a celestial mural, depicting the night sky with constellations that come to life in vivid colors. The intricate Beaux-Arts details, from the ornate chandeliers to the polished stone columns, create a sense of timeless elegance. Each element, meticulously crafted, tells a story of the station’s rich history as a bustling hub of transportation and social exchange. Grand Central stands not only as a functional transit space but as a masterpiece of architectural wonder, inviting visitors to pause and admire its stunning beauty.
For an authentic experience, you should book a photographer who specializes in documentary style wedding photography. This style captures more candid shots of the ceremony and reception, creating a timeless gallery of your big day. Utilizing motion blur in your photos, a documentary style photographer will be able to capture the ambiance of the station, in an emotional and authentic way.
5. Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is one of the most iconic spots in New York City and is an stunning place to elope. Perched atop Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock offers unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline.
The history of Top of the Rock dates back to 1933 when construction on the skyscraper began. Completed in 1939, it was named after John D. Rockefeller Jr., who funded the project. Since then, it has become a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a 360-degree view of the city from 70 stories up.
On a clear day, you can take in incredible city views. The night skyline is even more impressive with the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center standing tall against the twinkling lights. As your New York elopement photographer, I capture intimate and authentic shots of you and your partner taking in the view - enjoying those first few moments as a married couple.
6. NYC Town Hall
Eloping at the NYC Town Hall is a romantic and unforgettable experience for couples seeking a simple and intimate wedding. Located in the heart of the city, the iconic Town Hall provides an elegant backdrop for exchanging vows. The process is straightforward, making it ideal for couples who want to avoid the stress and fuss of planning a traditional wedding. With its stunning architecture and historical significance, the NYC Town Hall adds an extra touch of charm and significance to the occasion. Whether it's just the two of you or a small group of loved ones, eloping at the NYC Town Hall allows couples to focus on their love and commitment, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
When you’re ready to book your New York City elopement - you can contact me here!
7. Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic landmark. It’s truly a timeless and stunning background for not only NYC elopements, but also engagement shoots. The best time of day to have a Brooklyn Bridge elopement is definitely sunrise, if you want to avoid the crowds!
The Brooklyn Bridge stands as a timeless symbol of New York City, both in its history and its majestic views. Completed in 1883, this iconic suspension bridge was a feat of engineering genius at the time, spanning the East River to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn. For decades, the bridge has been a vital transportation artery for commuters and tourists alike. Its distinctive Gothic arches and granite towers have witnessed countless pivotal moments in the city's history, from the grand parades of soldiers returning from war to the peaceful marches for civil rights. Today, the Brooklyn Bridge continues to inspire awe and admiration, offering unparalleled vistas of the city's skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River.
8. Brooklyn Botanic Gardens
If you’re looking for an idyllic and romantic setting to elope in New York City, look no further than the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. With lush gardens and thousands of different species of plants and flowers, it is a truly beautiful backdrop for your special day.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden has a long and rich history, having first opened its doors in 1910. It was created to give New Yorkers the chance to experience nature and appreciate botany in a unique way. Today, it still stands as a living museum with both indoor and outdoor attractions that are enjoyed by thousands of people each year.
The breathtaking scenery at Brooklyn Botanic Garden will make for the perfect backdrop to your ceremony. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere with its elegant waterfalls and ancient weeping cherry trees. The magnolia plaza is full of vibrant colors, while the Shakespeare Garden is filled with plants and flowers mentioned in his works.
When it comes to planning your wedding at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, you’ll have plenty of options. If you want to keep things simple and small, you can exchange your vows among the lovely grounds with just the two of you or a few of your closest friends and family members. As your documentary-style wedding photographer, I capture candid shots that focus on your love and real intimate moments.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a perfect option for those looking for a truly romantic setting. From its rich history to its stunning scenery, this garden offers an unparalleled ambiance that will make your day unforgettable.
Documentary Style Elopement Photography
Documentary style elopement photography captures the authenticity and intimacy of your special day, focusing on real moments as they unfold. This approach emphasizes candid interactions, genuine emotions, and the unique story of your love, all without forced poses or staged scenes. With a keen eye for detail, the photographer documents each fleeting glance and spontaneous laugh, creating a narrative that reflects the essence of your relationship. Whether in a breathtaking natural setting or an urban landscape, documentary elopement photography ensures that your memories are preserved in a raw and honest way, allowing you to relive the magic of your day for years to come.
Contact
If you are looking for NYC elopement photographer who offers location advice, you have definitely come to the right place. I have plenty of experience adventuring around the streets of NYC with couples for their engagement and elopement photos, and know all of the great spots. So when you're ready to book, you can view my investment page here and contact me here!